Company news: Genentech, Forest

Genentech reps are holding their own among oncologists, but a recent study by Market Strategies International shows that Novartis has edged out the biotech among hematologists. The 2012 Oncology Image Study assessed 30 attributes linked to sales reps, corporate functions and R&D. This was the first time Novartis beat out Genentech among hematologists. Celgene and Takeda also hold two of the top five spots among hematologists. Market Strategies also found that focusing on patients and innovation were key non-rep attributes that help burnish corporate images.

Tag team Almirall SA and Forest Labs announced a win Tuesday as the FDA approved their inhalable COPD drug Tudorza Pressair (aclidinium bromide). “As the first long-acting inhaled anticholinergic agent approved in over eight years for COPD, Tudorza will be an important treatment option,” Forest Labs' CEO said in a statement. The twice-daily drug builds out Forest's COPD treatments to include Tudorza and Daliresp (roflumilast). Forest licensed rights to Tudorza in 2005. Rights to market the drug in Japan belong to Kyorin, and Daewoong has marketing rights in Korea. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease refers to an array of diseases that interferes with breathing, such as chronic bronchitis and asthma. The CDC notes that tobacco is a major cause of many US cases.